Carla Garcia
Multicultural Specialist
New Mexico School for the Deaf
Education
B.S. in Child Development
Gallaudet University
M.A. in Bilingual & Bicultural Education,
University of Arizona
Carla was born deaf in Belen, New Mexico. Her parents were able
to recognize her deafness at the age of 5 months from their experience with
their first child who is also deaf. Carla was enrolled in the New Mexico School
for the Deaf (NMSD) at a very young age. Her parents gave up their first
language, Spanish, because they were told that they would confuse Carla more if
they do not speak English. Carla’s parent much later realized it was not true
and decided to maintain Spanish, English and indeed, American Sign Language to
communicate with Carla.
Carla did not recognize her family culture until she was a
student at Gallaudet University. She was called nasty names and it was when she
began to question herself and her own identity. Her first job at the Arizona
State School for the Deaf and Blind also taught her that she is a role model for
Hispano students. She also became more passionate about preserving heritage,
culture, language and identity after she worked as an intern in Thailand. That
opportunity gave her the insight and realization that Deaf Thai are true to
their identity, culture, language and rituals. Carla feels that schools of deaf
children need to become familiar with students’ family language, culture and
values and incorporate them into lesson plans and curricula. Carla also believes
that identity in students will blossom when recognized, discussed and valued at
an early age.
Carla became the first child of 8 siblings to graduate with B.S.
and the second child to obtain an M.A. As of now, she works at the NMSD as a
Multicultural Specialist. She works with staff, students, and families at the
school and also collaborates with people in the community. Carla believes in the
significance of eliminating oppression or biases in the school environment and
of gaining respect for all. She oversees, sponsors, and promotes self
advocacy and empowerment for two clubs, the Hispanic Club and the Strong Silent
Council (Native American Club).
Carla serves on the National Council Hispano of Deaf and
Hard of Hearing board of director. She also serves as a vice president of New
Mexico School for the Deaf Alumni Association. She is a member of the New Mexico
Association of the Deaf and National Association of Multicultural Education.